In this Post
Most Commonly Used Beams
Types of Beam Materials
The durability of a building chiefly relies on its pillars and beams. Pillars help give a strong foundation to the structure while beams give it the much-needed structural strength. The primary purpose of a structural element like a beam is to resist a load of the applied forces by bending to a certain angle. There are different types of beams used in construction. Beams are categorised on the basis of some key factors such as the amount of support they provide, their shapes, length, and materials.
So, to help you develop a better understanding in this regard, we are going to discuss all the types of beams commonly used in the construction industry, their practical applications, and materials.
Let’s get started!
Popular Types of Beams Used in Construction
Used to bear shear forces, manage and distribute vertical loads, the following are the most commonly used beams in the construction industry.
- Fixed Beam
- Cantilever Beam
- Simply Supported Beam (Freely Supported Beam)
- Continuously Supported Beam
Fixed Beams
As the name implies, a fixed beam has both of its ends fixed. It is also known as a built-in beam. As a matter of fact, the ends of a beam can never be completely fixed. However, they are positioned in a way to achieve the required fitness. Now, let’s take a look at the practical applications of fixed beams in the construction industry.
Practical Applications of Fixed Beams
Fixed beams provide sturdiness to the structure. They are used to withstand both horizontal and vertical forces. Installing them in a sloppy roof of a house is how you can put them to the best use. All of the strength of such a structural element comes from two load-bearing fixed ends.
Cantilever Beam
You may have seen structures made with this type of beam around you. Cantilever beams are supported from one end and have a wall or some other type of vertical surface at the other end. It’s a rigid structural element that is firmly attached to a vertical surface.
The chances of structural failure in the case of cantilever beams increase. For instance, it may fall apart if the vertical structure with which it is attached is made of substandard materials.
Practical applications of cantilever beams
One of the most common practical applications of cantilever beams is that they are installed in the balcony of almost every other building. It is a type of beam used in construction, which can be built using slabs or racks. These elements allow it to withstand structural loads.
On a side note, you may also be interested in taking a look at our blog on the best balcony flooring options available in Pakistan.
Simply Supported Beam
A simply supported beam rests freely at both ends. This is why it is also known as a freely supported beam. This type of beam is installed in a way that it has pinned support at one end and a roller support on the other end. It makes it very good at handling resisting vertical forces.
Practical applications of Simply Supported Beams
Being one of the most common types of beams used in construction, they have a wide variety of applications. They quality to rotate freely make them suitable for the construction of suspension bridges, and earth-quake resistant structures such as tall buildings. These are some of the practical applications of simply supported beams.
Continuously Supported Beam
It is one of the most popular types of beams used in the construction industry. The way a continuous beam is installed in a structure allows it to resist bending when some sort of force or load is applied. Let’s take a look at the most common physical applications of continuously supported beams in the world of construction.
Practical Applications of Continuously Supported Beams
It is a type of beam that is supported by at least three vertical or other forms of structural supports. A continuous beam is best used in the construction of bridges.
Most Common Types of Beam Materials
A majority of structural beams are made of wood, concrete, and steel. All of these materials have unique qualities and applications. Let’s get to know a little bit more about them.
- Wood Structural Beam
- Steel Structural Beam
- Concrete Structural Beam
Wood Beam
A wood beam can not be as tough as steel and concrete structural beams. This is why the best way to use them is to install them in small housing units and residential buildings. You can use them in the attic of your house with a sloppy room.
Pro Tip: A wood beam is more suitable for decorative purposes than providing durability to the structure.
Steel Beam
Beams made of steel are one of the best types of beams used in construction. They are strong and capable of handling heavy loads. A steel beam doesn’t easily get corroded. This makes it an appropriate choice for the construction of underwater bridges.
Concrete Beam
Concrete is one of the best types of beam materials. A concrete beam can handle strong forces and excessive loads. This is why they are mostly used in commercial construction. Concrete structural beams are also used to provide bridges and highways with the necessary support.
These were the best types of beams used in construction and the common materials with which they are made. If you have any questions or feedback related to this blog, feel free to get in touch with us at blog@zameen.com.
Since you are here reading about the construction industry, you may also like our pieces on types of bricks used in construction and tips to identify the best construction materials.
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